Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield [Member] NRG Yield [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] El Segundo [Member] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] CVSR [Member] Thermal [Member] Thermal [Member] Represents Thermal segment of the entity. NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] GCE Holding LLC [Member] Represents the GCE Holding LLC GCE Holding LLC which wholly-owns GenConn Energy LLC. Marsh Landing [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] Marsh Landing [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] November 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC [Member] Power Generation Facilities by Type [Axis] Power Generation Facilities by Type [Axis] The types of power generation facilities included in the entity's total global generation portfolio. Power Generation Facilities, Type [Domain] Power Generation Facilities, Type [Domain] Listing of power generation facilities included in the entity's total global generation portfolio. Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Utility-Scale Solar [Member] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] NRG El Segundo Operations, Inc. [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] GenOn Energy Services LLC [Member] Affiliated Entity [Member] Affiliated Entity [Member] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] NRG [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] NRG Repowering Holdings LLC [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] NRG Energy Services LLC [Member] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Plan [Member] Scenario, Plan [Member] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] NRG Power Marketing LLC [Member] NRG Power Marketing LLC [Member] NRG Power Marketing LLC [Member] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Operations and Maintenance services [Member] Support services [Member] Support services [Member] Support services [Member] Related Party Transaction Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Other Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Management Services Fee, Annual Service Management Costs Management Services Fee, Increase Service Management Costs, Fee Increase Service Management Costs, Fee Increase General and administrative General and Administrative Expense Due to Affiliate Due to Affiliate Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related Party Costs, Capitalized Amount Related Party Costs, Capitalized Amount Related Party Costs, Capitalized Amount Payments Payments Payments Receipt of payments Receipt of payments Receipt of payments coal, gas purchases coal, gas purchases coal, gas purchases Cost of Natural Gas Purchases Cost of Natural Gas Purchases Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Entities that are not consolidated [Member] Consolidated Entities [Member] Consolidated Entities [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Alta X and XI TE Holdco [Member] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG DGPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] NRG RPV Holdco [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Summarized financial information of equity method investment Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Nature of Business Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- IPO of NRG Yield IPO of NRG Yield [Table Text Block] [Table Text Block] for IPO of NRG Yield [Table] The Company's operating assets are comprised of the following projects: Schedule of Ownership Percentage, Net Capacity, Offtake Counterparty and Year of Offtake Expiration by Operating Asset [Table Text Block] Schedule of Ownership Percentage, Net Capacity, Offtake Counterparty and Year of Offtake Expiration by Operating Asset [Table Text Block] Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Non-cash [Member] Non-cash [Member] Non-cash [Member] Statement Statement [Line Items] Cash Flows from Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net Income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Distributions in excess of equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Amortization of financing costs and debt discount/premiums Amortization of Financing Costs and Discounts Amortization of intangibles and out-of-market contracts Amortization of Intangibles and Out of Market Contracts The aggregate (income) expense recorded in earnings to allocate the cost of out-of-market contracts and intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash (income) expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by (used in) operations using the indirect method. Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Change in deferred income taxes Increase (Decrease) in Income Taxes Changes in derivative instruments Increase (Decrease) in Derivative Assets and Liabilities Changes in other working capital Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets and Liabilities, Net Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash Flows from Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Acquisition of businesses, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control (Increase) decrease in restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Decrease in notes receivable, including affiliates Payments for (Proceeds from) Loans Receivable Proceeds from renewable energy grants Proceeds from Renewable Energy Grants The amount of cash received during the period for renewable energy grants related to capital projects. Net investments in unconsolidated affiliates Payments to Acquire Businesses and Interest in Affiliates Other Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net Cash Used in Investing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Proceeds from Contributions from Parent Distributions and return of capital to NRG prior to the acquisition of Drop Down Assets and IPO Payments of Capital Distribution Proceeds from the issuance of common stock Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock Payment of dividends and distributions Payments of Dividends Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Payment of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payments for long-term debt — external Proceeds from (Repayments of) Debt Payments for long-term debt — affiliate Proceeds from (Repayments of) Related Party Debt Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net (Decrease) Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period Interest Paid, Net Interest Paid, Net Additions (reductions) to fixed assets for accrued capital expenditures Additions (reductions) to fixed assets for accrued capital expenditures Additions (reductions) to fixed assets for accrued capital expenditures Decrease to fixed assets for accrued grants Decrease in Fixed Assets, Accrued Grants The decrease in fixed assets for accrued grants and related tax impact. Decrease to fixed assets for deferred tax asset Decrease in Fixed Assets, Deferred Tax Asset The decrease in fixed assets for deferred tax assets Non-cash addition to additional paid-in capital for change in tax basis of property, plant and equipment for assets acquired from NRG Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Other Payment of capital distributions and returns of capital, net of capital contributions Payment of capital distributions and returns of capital, net of capital contributions Payment of capital distributions and returns of capital, net of capital contributions Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Financing Receivable, Net Financing Receivable, Net Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Spring Canyon [Member] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Axis] Period [Domain] Period [Domain] [Domain] for Period [Axis] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Pre-Flip Point [Member] Post-Flip Point [Member] Post-Flip Point [Member] Post-Flip Point [Member] Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Has Not Occured [Member] Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Has Not Occured [Member] Pre-determined Date Through Flip Point If Flip Hasn't Occured [Member] First Year [Member] First Year [Member] First Year [Member] Second Year through Flip Point [Member] Second Year through Flip Point [Member] Second Year through Flip Point [Member] Other Ownership Interests Name [Axis] Other Ownership Interests Name [Axis] Other Ownership Interests, Name [Domain] Other Ownership Interests, Name [Domain] Financial Institutions [Member] Financial Institutions [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the financial institutions. Wind Farms [Member] Wind Farms [Member] Wind farm generation capacity. Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon II [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Spring Canyon III [Member] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Other Assets Other Assets Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Number of Facilities Number of Facilities Number of Facilities Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts Power Generation Capacity, Megawatts The generation capacity of the entity's power generation facilities as of the balance sheet date, expressed in megawatts. Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Business Acquisition, Consideration Transferred, Working Capital Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Pre-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Taxable Income Allocation, Post-Flip Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Percentage of Cash Available for Distributions Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill) Assets Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Liabilities Liabilities Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Business Combination, Acquisition of Less than 100 Percent, Noncontrolling Interest, Fair Value Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity Noncontrolling Interest in Variable Interest Entity Net Assets Net Assets Earnings (Loss) Per Share Disclosure [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 [Member] 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 [Member] 3.5% Convertible Notes due 2019 [Member] 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 [Member] 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 [Member] 3.25% Convertible Notes due 2020 [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Class A [Member] Common Class A [Member] Common Class C [Member] Common Class C [Member] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Basic, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to NRG Yield, Inc. Class A common stockholders Earnings Per Share Attributable To Reporting Entity Shareholders Basic [Abstract] Numerator: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic [Abstract] Net income attributable to NRG Yield, Inc.(a) Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Denominator: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic [Abstract] Weighted average number of common shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Basic and diluted loss per share: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Earnings per weighted average common share — basic and diluted (a) Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Schedule of Distributions Paid [Table Text Block] Schedule of Distributions Paid [Table Text Block] Schedule of Distributions Paid [Table Text Block] Schedule of Dividends Paid [Table Text Block] Schedule of Dividends Paid [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of all or some of the information related to dividends paid Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Common Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current Assets Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Accounts receivable — trade Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Accounts receivable — affiliate Due from Affiliate, Current Inventory Inventory, Net Derivative instruments — affiliate Derivative Asset Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Current Prepayments and other current assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment In service Property, Plant and Equipment, Other, Gross Under construction Construction in Progress, Gross Total property, plant and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Net property, plant and equipment Other Assets Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Equity investments in affiliates Equity Method Investments Notes receivable Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable, Net, Noncurrent Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $93 and $38 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Derivative instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Assets, Net, Noncurrent Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total other assets Total Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current Liabilities Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current portion of long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accounts payable — affiliate Due to Affiliate, Current Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Current Accrued expenses and other current liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Derivative instruments Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Other non-current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total non-current liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent Total Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Stockholders' Equity Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; none issued Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common Stock, Value, Issued Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional Paid in Capital Additional Paid in Capital Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Noncontrolling interest Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity Liabilities and Equity Accounting Policies [Abstract] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Purpose [Axis] Purpose [Axis] Purpose [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-Term Debt, Current [Member] Long-Term Debt, Current [Member] Long-Term Debt, Current [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Operating Expense [Member] Cash Distribution [Member] Cash Distribution [Member] Reserves [Member] Reserves [Member] Reserves [Member] January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] January 2015 Drop Down Assets [Member] Project Level Subsidiaries [Member] Project Level Subsidiaries [Member] Project Level Subsidiaries [Member] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] [Line Items] for Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Other Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Other Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents Interest Costs Capitalized Interest Costs Capitalized Income Taxes, Threshold Percentage Income Taxes, Threshold Percentage The percentage that is likely to be realized upon settlement which is used as a basis of recording unrecognized tax benefits for income tax positions that have surpassed the more-likely-than-not threshold. Contingent Rental Income Associated with PPAs Operating Leases, Income Statement, Contingent Revenue Asset Retirement Obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] Summary of the components of the Company's intangible assets subject to amortization Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of estimated amortization of NRG's intangible assets for each of the next five years Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] Borrego [Member] Borrego [Member] Borrego [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] TA - High Desert LLC [Member] Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] Kansas South [Member] Support Equipment and Facilities [Member] Support Equipment and Facilities [Member] Land and improvements Land and Land Improvements [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Current assets Renewable energy grant, gross Renewable energy grant, gross Renewable energy grant, gross Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, plant and equipment, useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Renewable energy grants, net Renewable energy grants, net Renewable energy grants, net Proceeds from renewable energy grants Document And Entity Information [Abstract] -- None. No documentation exists for this element. -- Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Common Class D [Member] Common Class D [Member] Common Class D [Member] Class of Stock Class of Stock [Line Items] Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Net Income (Loss) [Member] Net Income (Loss) [Member] Net Income (Loss) [Member] Operating Income (Loss) [Member] Operating Income (Loss) [Member] Operating Revenues [Member] Operating Revenues [Member] Operating Revenues [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Scenario, Previously Reported [Member] Net Income/(Loss) per Weighted Average Common Share - Basic (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Operating Income Operating Income (Loss) Quarterly Financial Information, Quarterly Charges and Credits, Amount Reconciling to Previously Reported Results Quarterly Financial Information, Quarterly Charges and Credits, Amount Reconciling to Previously Reported Results Operating revenues Revenues Income Statement [Abstract] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Predecessor Predecessor [Member] Operating Revenues Revenues [Abstract] Total operating revenues Operating Costs and Expenses Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of operations Cost of Revenue Depreciation and amortization Acquisition-related transaction and integration costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Total operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Other Income (Expense) Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Interest expense Interest Expense Total other expense, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income Before Income Taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net Income Less: Pre-acquisition net (loss) income of Drop Down Assets Less: Pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Less: Pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Net Income Excluding Pre-acquisition Net (Loss) Income of Drop Down Assets Net Income excluding pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Net Income excluding pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to NRG Yield, Inc.(a) Earnings Per Share Attributable to NRG Yield, Inc. Class A and Class C Common Stockholders Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Dividends Per Class A Common Share Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Net notional volume buy/(sell) of NRG Yield's open derivative transactions broken out by commodity Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Fair value within the derivative instrument valuation on the balance sheets Schedule of Derivatives Instruments Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Offsetting of derivatives by counterparty master agreement level and collateral received or paid Offsetting Liabilities [Table Text Block] Effects of NRG Yield's accumulated OCI balance attributable to interest rate swaps designated as cash flow hedge derivatives, net of tax Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer Contracts Customer Contracts [Member] Energy Systems Company [Member] Energy Systems Company [Member] Energy Systems Company [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Segment Reporting [Abstract] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Customer [Axis] Customer [Axis] Customer [Domain] Customer [Domain] Southern California Edison [Member] Southern California Edison [Member] Southern California Edison [Member] PG&E [Member] PG&E [Member] PG&E [Member] Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Conventional Generation Conventional Generation [Member] Conventional Generation [Member] Renewables Renewables [Member] Renewables [Member] Thermal [Member] Corporate Corporate Segment [Member] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Customer's Percentage of Total Revenue Customer's Percentage of Total Revenue Customer's Percentage of Total Revenue Cost of operations Operating Expenses Equity in earnings of unconsolidated affiliates Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Interest Expense Capital Expenditures Capital Expenditures Represents amount of total Capital expenditures including accruals pertaining to repowering of entity's projects, major maintenance and meeting environmental commitments. Total Assets Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Text Block] Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Estimated carrying values and fair values of the Company's recorded financial instruments Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Alta Wind Portfolio [Member] Alta Wind Portfolio [Member] Alta Wind Portfolio [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC [Member] Represents NRG Solar Blythe LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the entity. Alta Wind XI [Member] Alta Wind XI [Member] Alta Wind XI [Member] Customer Relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Supply Commitment Arrangement [Domain] Supply Commitment Arrangement [Domain] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Other Intangible Assets [Member] Emission Allowances [Member] Emission Allowances [Member] An asset acquired in a business combination representing an entity's emission allowances. Research and Development Expense [Member] Developed Technology Rights [Member] Leasehold Rights [Member] Leasehold Rights [Member] Leasehold Rights [Member] Out of Market Contracts [Member] Out of Market Contracts [Member] Out of Market Contracts [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Gross amount at the end of the period Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Gross amount at the beginning of the period Acquisition of Spring Canyon Finite-lived Intangible Assets Acquired Less accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net carrying amount Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Weighted average remaining amortization period (in years) Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Out of Market Contracts Out of Market Contracts Represents out-of-market contracts, which relate to customer contracts, energy supply contracts, power contracts, gas swaps, and certain coal contracts, where the contracted commodity price was less than the market price for revenue contracts and greater than market for cost contracts as of the acquisition date for contracts acquired in a business combination or the date of emergence from bankruptcy. The customer contracts, gas swaps and power contracts are amortized to revenues while the energy supply contracts and coal contracts are amortized to cost of operations over the term of the contracts. Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Other Changes Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Other Changes This element represents other additions or reductions to finite-lived intangible assets during the period. Contra Revenue Intangibles Amortization Contra Revenue Intangibles Amortization Intangibles Amortization recorded to contra-revenue account Accumulated Amortization of Out of Market Contracts Accumulated Amortization of Out of Market Contracts Accumulated Amortization of Out of Market Contracts Out of Market Contracts Amortization Expense Out of Market Contracts Amortization Expense Out of Market Contracts Amortization Expense Amortization Amortization Estimated amortization related to the Company's finite-lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Estimated intangible assets amortization, 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months Estimated intangible assets amortization, 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Estimated intangible assets amortization, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Estimated intangible assets amortization, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Estimated intangible assets amortization, 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Axis] Maturity Date [Domain] Maturity Date [Domain] [Domain] for Maturity Date [Axis] January 31, 2031 [Member] January 31, 2031 [Member] January 31, 2031 [Member] May 15, 2031 [Member] May 15, 2031 [Member] May 15, 2031 [Member] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Letter of Credit [Member] Letter of Credit [Member] Term Loan Facility [Member] Term Loan Facility [Member] Term Loan Facility [Member] Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Notes Payable, Other Payables [Member] Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] Represents other debt instruments not separately accounted disclosed. Project [Domain] Project [Domain] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] 5.375% Senior Notes due in 2024 [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] NRG Yield Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement, due 2022 [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement [Member] Alpine Financing Agreement [Member] Alta Wind I, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind I, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind I, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind II, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind II, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind II, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind III, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind III, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind III, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind IV, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind IV, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind IV, lease financing arrangement, due 2034 [Member] Alta Wind V, lease financing arrangement, due 2035 [Member] Alta Wind V, lease financing arrangement, due 2035 [Member] Alta Wind V, lease financing arrangement, due 2035 [Member] Alta Wind X, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Realty Investments, due 2031 [Member] Alta Realty Investments, due 2031 [Member] Alta Realty Investments, due 2031 [Member] Alta Wind Asset Management, due 2031 [Member] Alta Wind Asset Management, due 2031 [Member] Alta Wind Asset Management, due 2031 [Member] Avra Valley Financing Agreement [Member] Avra Valley Financing Agreement [Member] Avra Valley Financing Agreement [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC Credit Agreement Due 2028 [Member] NRG Solar Blythe LLC Credit Agreement Due 2028 [Member] Represent NRG Solar Blythe LLC credit agreement, which is due 2028. Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2024 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2024 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2024 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2038 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2038 [Member] Borrego Financing Agreement, due 2038 [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche A [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes [Member] Represents senior secured notes financed by NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC, which are due 2013, 2017, and 2025. Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [Member] Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [Member] Kansas South Facility, due 2031 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Laredo Ridge Wind, LLC, due in 2026 [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] Marsh Landing Term Loan Facility [Member] PFMG Financing Agreement [Member] PFMG Financing Agreement [Member] PFMG Financing Agreement [Member] Roadrunner Financing Agreement [Member] Roadrunner Financing Agreement [Member] Roundrunner Financing Agreement [Member] Kansas South Facility [Member] Kansas South Facility [Member] Kansas South Facility [Member] South Trent Financing Agreement [Member] South Trent Financing Agreement [Member] South Trent Financing Agreement [Member] Avra Valley [Member] Avra Valley [Member] Avra Valley [Member] High Desert Facility [Member] High Desert Facility [Member] High Desert Facility [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Tapestry Wind LLC due in 2021 [Member] Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 [Member] Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 [Member] Viento Funding II, Inc., due in 2023 [Member] Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] Walnut Creek Energy, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] WCEP Holdings, LLC, due in 2023 [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche B [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche B [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement due 2023 Tranche B [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche B due 2023 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche B due 2023 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche B due 2023 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche A due December 2017 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche A due December 2017 [Member] Marsh Landing Tranche A due December 2017 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2017 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2017 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2017 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2025 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2025 [Member] NRG Energy Center Minneapolis LLC Senior Secured Notes, due 2025 [Member] High Desert Facility, due 2033 [Member] High Desert Facility, due 2033 [Member] High Desert Facility, due 2033 [Member] TA - High Desert, due 2023 [Member] TA - High Desert, due 2023 [Member] TA - High Desert, due 2023 [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Interest Expense at Effective Rate Interest Expense at Effective Rate Interest Expense at Effective Rate Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Long-term Debt Long-term Debt Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Senior Notes Senior Notes Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Pro-Rate Share of Debt Held by Unconsolidated Affiliates Pro-Rate Share of Debt Held by Unconsolidated Affiliates Pro-Rate Share of Debt Held by Unconsolidated Affiliates Unaudited Quarterly Financial Data Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Fair Value Assets, Measured on Recurring Basis, Valuation Techniques, Impact of Credit Reserve to Fair Value Fair Value Assets, Measured on Recurring Basis, Valuation Techniques, Impact of Credit Reserve to Fair Value This element represents the increase (decrease) to fair value from applying a credit reserve to reflect credit risk on the valuation techniques used to measure fair value of Level 2 and 3 derivative contracts which is calculated based on credit default swaps. Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Financial Instrument, Maximum Exposure Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Financial Instrument, Maximum Exposure Estimated Counterparty Credit Risk Exposure to Certain Counterparties, Period Estimated Counterparty Credit Risk Exposure to Certain Counterparties, Period Estimated Counterparty Credit Risk Exposure to Certain Counterparties, Period Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method and Variable Interest Entities Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Acquired ROFO Assets [Domain] Acquired ROFO Assets [Domain] Acquired ROFO Assets [Domain] NRG Yield, Inc. [Member] Operating Expenses Equity in Earnings of Consolidated Subsidiaries Equity in Earnings of Consolidated Subsidiaries This item represents the proportionate share of the parent in the earnings of the consolidated subsidiaries. Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income Before Income Taxes Net income attributable to NRG Yield, Inc. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Successor [Member] Successor [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Accumulated OCL beginning balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Loss expected to be realized from OCI during the next 12 months, net of tax Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Walnut Creek [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] NRG Solar Alpine LLC [Member] NRG Solar Alpine LLC [Member] NRG Solar Alpine LLC [Member] NRG Solar Avra Valley [Member] NRG Solar Avra Valley [Member] NRG Solar Avra Valley [Member] NRG West Holdings LLC [Member] NRG West Holdings LLC [Member] NRG West Holdings LLC [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] Laredo Ridge [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] NRG Solar Roadrunner LLC [Member] South Trent Wind LLC [Member] South Trent Wind LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to South Trent Wind LLC. Tapestry Wind [Member] Tapestry Wind [Member] Tapestry Wind [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 31, 2029 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2023 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2023 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2023 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2025 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2025 [Member] Maturity - June 30, 2025 [Member] Maturity - November 30, 2030 [Member] Maturity - November 30, 2030 [Member] Maturity - November 30, 2030 [Member] Maturity - June 25, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 25, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 25, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June14, 2020 [Member] Maturity - June14, 2020 [Member] Maturity - June14, 2020 [Member] Maturity - June 14, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 14, 2028 [Member] Maturity - June 14, 2028 [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2021 [Member] [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2021 [Member] [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2021 [Member] [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2029 [Member] Maturity - December 21, 2029 [Member] 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months Percentage of Debt Hedged by Interest Rate Derivatives Percentage of Debt Hedged by Interest Rate Derivatives Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term Debt, Gross Long-term Debt, Gross Reconciliation of NRG's basic earnings per share to diluted earnings per share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Parentschedule [Abstract] Parentschedule [Abstract] UB Fuel Cell [Member] UB Fuel Cell [Member] UB Fuel Cell [Member] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] Pacific Gas and Electric [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Desert Sunlight [Member] Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Related Party Transactions Disclosure Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Conventional Generation [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Buffalo Bear [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Taloga [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Pinnacle [Member] Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses Business Combination, Separately Recognized Transactions, Net Gains and Losses AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, before Tax Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income(Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income(Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income(Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table Text Block] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table Text Block] Future minimum lease commitments under operating leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price [Table Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Dividends [Text Block] Dividends [Text Block] Dividends [Text Block] Investment Type [Axis] Investment Type [Axis] Investments [Domain] Investments [Domain] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Community Solar [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Community Solar [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Community Solar [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases - Commercial PV [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Existing Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] Tax Equity Financed Portfolio of Leases [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 1 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] NRG DGPV Fund 2 [Member] Revenues Equity Method Investments Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Number of Solar Leases in Portfolio Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Remaining Lease Term Non-current assets Assets, Noncurrent Liabilities, Current Liabilities, Noncurrent Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Payments of Capital Distribution Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivable, Related Parties Increase (Decrease) in Notes Receivable, Related Parties Payments of Financing Costs Payments of Financing Costs Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Table] Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Table] Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Other Additional Capital [Member] Other Additional Capital [Member] Retained Earnings Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Statement of Stockholders' Equity Schedule of Capitalization, Equity [Line Items] Total Stockholders' Equity Allocation of Predecessor's equity Allocation of Predecessor's equity Allocation of Predecessor's equity Net Income Excluding Pre-acquisition Net (Loss) Income of Drop Down Assets Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Unrealized gain/(loss) on derivatives Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Acquisition of Assets Under Common Control Acquisition of Assets Under Common Control Acquisition of Assets Under Common Control Payment to Acquire Business under Common Control Share-based Compensation Share-based Compensation Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Partners' Capital Account, Return of Capital Partners' Capital Account, Return of Capital Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Common Stock, Value, Issued Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Nature of Business [Table] Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Axis] Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Axis] Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Domain] Long-term Contract for Purchase of Electric Power [Domain] Drop-down Acquisition [Member] Drop-down Acquisition [Member] Drop-down Acquisition [Member] NRG Yield LLC NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG Yield LLC [Member] NRG GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Middletown [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] GenConn Devon [Member] Marsh Landing Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] Avenal [Member] RE Kansas South [Member] RE Kansas South [Member] RE Kansas South [Member] AZ DG Solar Projects AZ DG Solar Projects [Member] AZ DG Solar Projects [Member] PFMG DG Solar Projects PFMG DG Solar Projects [Member] PFMG DG Solar Projects [Member] Alta I [Member] Alta I [Member] Alta I [Member] Alta II [Member] Alta II [Member] alta II [Member] Alta III [Member] Alta III [Member] Alta III Alta IV [Member] Alta IV [Member] Alta IV [Member] Alta V [Member] Alta V [Member] Alta V [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta X [Member] Alta XI [Member] Alta XI [Member] Alta XI [Member] South Trent South Trent Holding LLC [Member] South Trent Holding LLC [Member] Spanish Fork [Member] Spanish Fork [Member] Spanish Fork [Member] Lookout [Member] Lookout [Member] Lookout [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] Odin Wind Farm [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] San Juan Mesa Wind Project, LLC [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Sleeping Bear [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Crosswinds [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Elbow Creek [Member] Forward [Member] Forward [Member] Forward [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Goat Wind [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Elkhorn Ridge Wind, LLC [Member] Hardin [Member] Hardin [Member] Hardin [Member] Wildorado [Member] Wildorado [Member] Wildorado [Member] Public Shareholders [Member] Public Shareholders [Member] Public Shareholders [Member] Class A units of NRG Yield LLC Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Utility-Scale Solar Distributed Solar Distributed Solar [Member] Distributed solar generation capacity. Nature of Business Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Voting Interest Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Voting Interest Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Voting Interest Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions Megawatts Thermal Equivalent, Available Under right-to-use Provisions Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Acquired in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Acquired in Transaction Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Acquired in Transaction Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Proceeds from Issuance Initial Public Offering Proceeds from Issuance Initial Public Offering Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Percentage of Ownership Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Allocation of Corporate Expenses Allocation of Corporate Expenses Allocation of Corporate Expenses Steam and Chilled Water Capacity, Megawatts Thermal Equivalent Steam and Chilled Water Capacity, Megawatts Thermal Equivalent The generation capacity of the entity's thermal power generation facilities as of the balance sheet date, expressed in megawatts thermal equivalent. Business Acquisitions, Consideration Transferred, Purchase Price Intangible assets, accumulated amortization Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued NRG Yield LLC [Member] Capital Unit, Class A [Member] Nature of Business [Line Items] Nature of Business [Line Items] [Line Items] for Nature of Business [Table] Payments of Capital Distribution Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Contingency [Table] Income Tax Disclosure Income Tax Contingency [Line Items] Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] U.S. Federal Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Total — current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] U.S. Federal Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) State Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total — deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax expense Effective tax rate (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent U.S. federal statutory rate (as a percent) Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to the Company's effective rate from continuing operations Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Percent [Abstract] Tax at 35% Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount State taxes, net of federal benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Investment tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Investment, Amount Impact of non-taxable partnership earnings Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount Production tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deduction, Qualified Production Activity, Amount Change in state effective tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount Income Taxes Receivable Income Taxes Receivable Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] NRG Yield Operating LLC [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Convertible Debt [Member] Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Effective Percentage Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Convertible Debt Convertible Debt Interest Expense, Debt Interest Expense, Debt Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Amortization of Debt Discount (Premium) Amortization of Financing Costs Amortization of Financing Costs Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Price Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Convertible, Conversion Ratio Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Percent of face value Percent of face value Percent of face value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Long-term Debt, Fair Value Common Stock Closing Price Common Stock Closing Price Common Stock Closing Price Conversion Value of Convertible Debt Conversion Value of Convertible Debt Conversion Value of Convertible Debt Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding Nature of Business Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Commodity contracts Commodity Contract [Member] Interest rate contracts current Interest Rate Contract Current [Member] The current portion of a derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to the right to receive or pay a sum of money at a given interest rate. Interest rate contracts long-term Interest Rate Contract Non Current [Member] The noncurrent portion of a derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to the right to receive or pay a sum of money at a given interest rate. Commodity contracts current Commodity Contract Current [Member] The current portion of a derivative instrument whose primary underlying risk is tied to commodity prices. Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Contract [Member] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Derivatives Designated as Cash Flow Hedges Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Derivatives Not Designated as Cash Flow Hedges Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Axis] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Underlying Asset Class [Domain] Natural Gas [Member] Natural Gas [Member] Interest [Member] Interest [Member] Details pertaining to interest rate swaps which are considered a derivative commodity. Measurement Unit [Axis] Measurement Unit [Axis] Represents information pertaining to various measurement units. Measurement Unit [Domain] Measurement Unit [Domain] Represents various measurement units used by the entity. MMbtu [Member] MMbtu [Member] Represents unit of measurement that is used to measure quantity of natural gas. Dollars United States of America, Dollars Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative, Collateral, Obligation to Return Cash Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative Liability Derivative Liability Fair Value of Gross Derivative Assets/(Liabilities), Net Fair Value of Gross Derivative Assets/(Liabilities), Net Fair value of gross derivative assets less fair value of gross derivative liabilities. Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Derivative Asset Fair Value Gross Liability Net Of Derivative Liability Fair Value Gross Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Net Of Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Amount Offset Against Collateral Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Unrealized gain/loss on derivatives, income tax expense /(benefit) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Tax Business Acquisition Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Alta Wind I - V Lease financing arrangement [Member] Alta Wind I - V Lease financing arrangement [Member] Alta Wind I - V Lease financing arrangement [Member] Debt Instrument Period [Axis] Debt Instrument Period [Axis] Debt Instrument Period [Axis] Debt Instrument Period [Domain] Debt Instrument Period [Domain] [Domain] for Debt Instrument Period [Axis] September 22, 2010 to March 18, 2015 [Member] September 22, 2010 to March 18, 2015 [Member] September 22, 2010 to March 18, 2015 [Member] March 18, 2015 to March 17, 2022 [Member] March 18, 2015 to March 17, 2022 [Member] March 18, 2015 to March 17, 2022 [Member] March 18, 2022 to March 17, 2027 [Member] March 18, 2022 to March 17, 2027 [Member] March 18, 2022 to March 17, 2027 [Member] March 18, 2027 through Maturity [Member] March 18, 2027 through Maturity [Member] March 18, 2027 through Maturity [Member] July 11, 2013 to July 11, 2017 [Member] July 11, 2013 to July 11, 2017 [Member] July 11, 2013 to July 11, 2017 [Member] July 11, 2017 to July 11, 2021 [Member] July 11, 2017 to July 11, 2021 [Member] July 11, 2017 to July 11, 2021 [Member] July 11, 2021 through Maturity [Member] July 11, 2021 through Maturity [Member] July 11, 2021 through Maturity [Member] Viento Funding [Member] Viento Funding [Member] Viento Funding [Member] Working Capital Facility [Member] Working Capital Facility [Member] Working Capital Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Proceeds from Debt, Net of Issuance Costs Letters of Credit, Issued Amount Letters of Credit, Issued Amount The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit issued as of the reporting date. Basis of Presentation Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Unrestricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade Receivables and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Impairments Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Capitalized Interest Interest Capitalization, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt Issuance Costs Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Financial Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentrations of Credit Risk Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Guarantees Guarantees, Indemnifications and Warranties Policies [Policy Text Block] Investments Accounted for by the Equity Method Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Lease, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Equity Arrangements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Equity Arrangements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Tax Equity Arrangements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Developments New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives by Underlying Assets [Axis] Derivatives by Underlying Assets [Axis] Derivatives by the underlying asset from which its value is derived. Underlying Assets [Domain] Underlying Assets [Domain] Major types of referenced/ underlying assets. Derivative Liability Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Into Level 3 Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value of Derivative Instruments Derivative, Fair Value, Net [Abstract] Derivative Liabilities Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Accumulated OCL beginning balance Mark-to-market of cash flow hedge accounting contracts Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Accumulated OCL ending balance, net of income tax benefit of $16, $6 and $1, respectively Accumulated OCL ending balance, net of income tax benefit of $16, $6 and $1, respectively Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Change in Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Tax Amount Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Change in Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Tax Amount Summary of Derivative Instruments Impact on Results of Operations Summary of Derivative Instruments Impact on Results of Operations [Abstract] Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers into Level 3 Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers into Level 3 Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Assets, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Assets, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 1 to Level 2 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Fair Value, Liabilities, Level 2 to Level 1 Transfers, Amount Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months, Tax Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months, Tax The estimated tax impact of existing gains or losses on cash flow hedges, at the reporting date, which are expected to be reclassified to earnings within the next 12 months. June 2014 Drop Down Assets [Member] June 2014 Drop Down Assets [Member] June 2014 Drop Down Assets [Member] Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Business Acquisitions, Consideration Transferred, Purchase Price Business Acquisitions, Consideration Transferred, Purchase Price Business Acquisitions, Consideration Transferred, Purchase Price Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Table] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Long-term Purchase Commitment [Line Items] Operating Leases, Rent Expense Operating Leases, Rent Expense Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Utilities Operating Expense, Purchased Power under Long-term Contracts Utilities Operating Expense, Purchased Power under Long-term Contracts Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years Purchase Obligation Purchase Obligation Fixed Rate Notes [Member] Fixed Rate Notes [Member] Fixed Rate Notes [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] CVSR Financing Agreement [Member] GenConn Facility [Member] GenConn Facility [Member] GenConn Facility [Member] Lender Name [Axis] Lender Name [Axis] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] Line of Credit Facility, Lender [Domain] SyndicateofBanks [Member] SyndicateofBanks [Member] SyndicateofBanks [Member] EurusEnergy [Member] EurusEnergy [Member] EurusEnergy [Member] High Plains II [Member] High Plains II [Member] High Plains II [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Gen Conn Energy LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to GenConn Energy LLC. Power Purchase Agreement Period Power Purchase Agreement Period Represents the period of power purchase agreement Notes and Loans Payable Notes and Loans Payable Other Borrowings Other Borrowings Income tax provision from continuing operations Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of the U.S. federal statutory rate to the Company's effective rate Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Domain] Sale of Stock [Domain] Over-Allotment Option [Member] Over-Allotment Option [Member] 2015 Drop Down Asssets [Member] 2015 Drop Down Asssets [Member] 2015 Drop Down Asssets [Member] Dividends Payable, Date Declared Dividends Payable, Date Declared Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Distributions Paid, Per Unit Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Distributions Paid, Per Unit Investment Banking, Advisory, Brokerage, and Underwriting Fees and Commissions Investment Banking, Advisory, Brokerage, and Underwriting Fees and Commissions Expense Related to Distribution or Servicing and Underwriting Fees Expense Related to Distribution or Servicing and Underwriting Fees Common Stock, Voting Rights Common Stock, Voting Rights Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Dividends Payable, Date of Record Dividends Payable, Date of Record Schedule of Effective Interest Rate [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Interest Rate [Table Text Block] Schedule of Effective Interest Rate [Table Text Block] Schedule of long-term debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Summary of swaps related to the Company's project level debt Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of annual payments based on the maturities of NRG Yield's debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Interest Expense [Member] Interest Expense [Member] Sales [Member] Sales [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Unrealized gain/(loss) on derivatives Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Retained Earnings, Undistributed Earnings from Equity Method Investees Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Abstract] Net deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract] Deferred Tax Assets, Gross [Abstract] Investment in projects Deferred Tax Assets, Investments Production tax credits carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Derivative Instruments Investment tax credits Deferred Tax Assets, Other U.S. Federal net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic State net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Investment in projects Deferred Tax Liabilities, Investment in Noncontrolled Affiliates Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred Tax Assets, Net September 1, 2020 through maturity [Member] September 1, 2020 through maturity [Member] September 1, 2020 through maturity [Member] September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2020 [Member] September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2020 [Member] September 1, 2017 to August 31, 2020 [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche A [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche B [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche B [Member] West Holdings Credit Agreement Tranche B [Member] West Holdings PPA [Member] West Holdings PPA [Member] West Holdings PPA [Member] West Holding Collateral Agent [Member] West Holding Collateral Agent [Member] West Holding Collateral Agent [Member] West Holdings Working Capital Facility [Member] West Holdings Working Capital Facility [Member] West Holdings Working Capital Facility [Member] Alta Wind X and Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X and Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Alta Wind X and Alta Wind XI, due 2020 [Member] Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity, Amendment Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Other Liabilities Other Liabilities Alta Wind Holdings [Member] Alta Wind Holdings [Member] Alta Wind Holdings [Member] Share Price Share Price Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Cash Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Cash Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Cash Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Other Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Assets, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Assets, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Assets, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Property, Plant, and Equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Intangibles Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Total Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Total Assets Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Total Assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Noncurrent Liabilities Longterm Debt Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Noncurrent Liabilities Longterm Debt Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Noncurrent Liabilities Longterm Debt Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt, Adjusted Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current and Non-Current Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Current and Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Current and Noncurrent Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Current and Noncurrent Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current and Non-current Liabilities, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current and Non-current Liabilities, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current and Non-current Liabilities, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Financial Liabilities Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed, Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed, Adjusted Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Net Assets Acquired Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Net Assets Acquired Business Combination, Provisional Information, Initial Accounting Incomplete, Adjustment, Net Assets Acquired Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Adjusted Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Adjusted Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income, net of tax Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives, net of income tax benefit (expense) of $10, $5, and ($16) Other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive Income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive Income Attributable to NRG Yield Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] NRG Yield, Inc - BS [Abstract] NRG Yield, Inc - BS [Abstract] Less: Pre-acquisition net income of Acquired ROFO assets Investments in subsidiaries Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Notes Receivable, Related Parties Notes Receivable, Related Parties Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Deferred income taxes Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Noncurrent Other Liabilities, Current Other Liabilities, Current